Timeline for Applications to Military Academies

*Adapted from the suggested timeline by GovFacts, a nonpartisan site focused on making government concepts and policies easier to understand — and government programs easier to access. 

Getting into an academy requires more than good grades, which is why candidates are evaluated in three areas: academic achievement, leadership potential, and physical fitness. Anyone interested in applying should treat the process like a marathon and carefully manage three separate tracks: the academy application, the separate nomination application, and the medical qualification. Planning early, say during sophomore year of high school, will help to make the process easier.

Junior Year (Jan – May)

  • Open Your Application: Academy portals typically open online in spring. Create an account and complete the Pre-Candidate Questionnaire to start your file.
  • Request Nominations: Research application procedures for your U.S. Representative and both U.S. Senators. Many offices open their application periods in spring.
  • Apply for Summer Programs: Submit applications for academy summer programs, such as West Point’s Summer Leaders Experience or the Naval Academy’s Summer Seminar. Final deadlines typically fall in April.
  • Train for the CFA: Begin a dedicated training program for the six events of the Candidate Fitness Assessment.

Summer before Senior Year (Jun – Aug)

  • Attend Summer Programs: If accepted, attend one of the five summer programs/seminars. This gives you an opportunity to experience life at a specific academy and a chance to impress admissions staff in person.
  • Begin Medical Exams: Once your application is open, the academy submits your name to the Department of Defense Medical Examination Review Board (DoDMERB). Complete these exams as early as possible since the process can take months.
  • Draft Essays and Secure Recommendations: Work on application essays and formally request letters of recommendation from teachers, coaches, or employers.

Senior Year (Sep – Jan)

  • Finalize Nomination Applications: Complete and submit all nomination applications. Deadlines often fall in September or October.
  • Take the CFA: Schedule and complete the Candidate Fitness Assessment with a qualified administrator and submit scores to the academy.
  • Complete Interviews: You’ll interview with your academy liaison officer and congressional nomination committees.
  • Submit Final Academy Application: All materials including transcripts, essays, and official test scores are typically due January 31.

Senior Year (Feb – May)

  • Wait for Decisions: Offers of appointment are made on a rolling basis. Most candidates receive their final status by April 15.
  • Finalize Medical Waivers: Complete any pending medical waiver processes by April.
  • Accept or Decline: Candidates who receive offers must formally accept or decline by May 1.